Composer

:

Fela Sowande

Genre

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

:

4:59

'Obangiji' is a classical composition by Nigerian composer Fela Sowande. It was composed in 1943 and premiered in Lagos, Nigeria in the same year. The composition is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, titled 'Oriki', is a tribute to the Yoruba god of destiny, Ori. It begins with a slow and solemn introduction, featuring the solo oboe and strings. The main theme is then introduced by the brass section, which is followed by a lively and rhythmic section featuring the percussion instruments. The movement ends with a return to the slow and solemn introduction. The second movement, titled 'Ogun', is a tribute to the Yoruba god of war, Ogun. It begins with a fast and energetic introduction, featuring the percussion instruments. The main theme is then introduced by the brass section, which is followed by a lively and rhythmic section featuring the strings. The movement ends with a return to the fast and energetic introduction. The third movement, titled 'Sango', is a tribute to the Yoruba god of thunder, Sango. It begins with a slow and solemn introduction, featuring the solo oboe and strings. The main theme is then introduced by the brass section, which is followed by a lively and rhythmic section featuring the percussion instruments. The movement ends with a return to the slow and solemn introduction. Overall, 'Obangiji' is a powerful and evocative composition that showcases Sowande's mastery of both Western classical music and traditional African music. The use of Yoruba mythology and musical traditions adds a unique and distinctive flavor to the composition, making it a true masterpiece of African classical music.

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